First appearing on USA-made drums between 1930 and 1970, drum sets made with the brass round badge have become highly respected and collectible in the vintage drum community.

The Gretsch Round Badge will appear on all Gretsch USA Custom drums, including G-4000 Series Metal and G-5000 Series Wood Snare Drums.

The newly designed Gretsch Round Badge shares many of the characteristics of the original version. Each is made from brass and features an embossed Gretsch logo, versus fully-embossed badges found on original Round Badge drum sets. A simulated patina will be applied to give the badge a vintage brass look.

The new Round Badge will be attached in the traditional method to the drums' vent holes using a pneumatically pressed brass grommet. Original Round Badge bass drums and snare drums have the pneumatically pressed brass grommet, with the toms using decorative tacks to affix the badge.

John Palmer, Director of Product for Gretsch Drums, says:

"Reintroducing the Round Badge to our USA-made product is a welcome return to classic and very emblematic Gretsch Drum design. As we approach the company's 130th anniversary, we are very proud to combine key elements of our rich heritage with our continuing advancements in drum making."

Several alternative Gretsch badge designs have been introduced since 1970, but the Round Badge has been attached only to commemorative products such as the 120th and 125th Anniversary drum sets. A special silver-colored version of the Round Badge is available on USA-made Gretsch Brooklyn Series drum sets.